Jimmy Panetta on Immigration

Let DREAMers earn their way to citizenship

As the grandson of immigrants who crossed an ocean for the opportunity offered by America, Jimmy understands that finding a path for immigrants to succeed is fundamental to who we are as a nation. He believes that the time has come for Congress to stop
playing politics and get serious about passing common sense immigration reform. America must recognize that children of immigrants--the so called "dreamers"--should have the chance to earn their way to citizenship in this country. The answer is not
deporting millions of hard working immigrants--rather it is creating a path to citizenship for law-abiding families paying taxes and those willing to play by the rules. They have fought to come here--and many have brought prosperity to their families
and the California economy through their hard work and ingenuity. Jimmy's goal is comprehensive immigration reform that strengthens border security, provides effective worker programs, and educational opportunities for the children of immigrants.

The Project Vote Smart Voter Guide inferred how candidates would respond to the question, 'Immigration: Do you support requiring immigrants who are unlawfully present to return to their country of origin before they are eligible for citizenship?'
Project Vote Smart notes, "in response to the increasing unwillingness of candidates to answer issue questions, Project Vote Smart has researched Congressional candidates' public records to determine candidates' likely responses on certain key issues. These issue positions, from the year 2016, are provided [for candidates who] refused to provide voters with positions on key issues covered by the 2016 Political Courage Test, despite repeated requests. Historically, candidates have failed to complete our test due to the advice they receive from their parties and advisors and out of fear of negative attack ads."